Scottie Scheffler issues statement about his PGA Championship arrest

Apr 13, 2024; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Scottie Scheffler waves to patrons after making an eagle putt on No. 13 during the third round of the Masters Tournament. Mandatory Credit: Adam Cairns-USA TODAY Network

Scottie Scheffler released a statement following his arrest on Friday at the PGA Championship in Louisville.

Scheffler told Jeff Darlington of ESPN that his arrest had been the product of a “big misunderstanding” in a “chaotic situation.” He added that he “never intended to disregard any of the instructions” he received from police, and also offered his condolences to the family of the man who was fatally struck by a shuttle en route to the tournament, which was a major factor in the traffic issues.

Statement from Scottie Scheffler to me: “This morning, I was proceeding as directed by police officers. It was a very chaotic situation, understandably so considering the tragic accident that had occurred earlier, and there was a big misunderstanding of what I thought I was…

— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) May 17, 2024

“This morning, I was proceeding as directed by police officers. It was a very chaotic situation, understandably so considering the tragic accident that had occurred earlier, and there was a big misunderstanding of what I thought I was being asked to do,” Scheffler said. “I never intended to disregard any of the instructions. I’m hopeful to put this to the side and focus on golf today.

“Of course, all of us involved in the tournament express our deepest sympathies to the family of the man who passed away in the earlier accident this morning. It truly puts everything in perspective.”

Scheffler was arrested over the apparent misunderstanding that saw him disregard police officers while trying to enter Valhalla Golf Club. He was handcuffed and ultimately faces four charges, including second degree assault of a police officer.

Despite all this, Scheffler, who shot a four-under 67 in the first round, did make his scheduled tee time and is playing without incident.